Suspects arrested in 2008 murder case

After nearly four years, RCMP investigators have arrested two individuals for the 2008 murder of Tyler Myers in Salmon Arm. Myers, who was 22 at the time of his death, was found on the grounds of Bastion Elementary on Nov. 21, 2008 where he died of a gunshot wound.

Southeast District major crime unit launched an investigation at the time of the murder and in 2012, the Unsolved Homicide Unit advanced the case to the point that on Monday, Nov. 5, 2012 two individuals were arrested in Salmon Arm and Vernon and charged with Myers’ murder.

“Investigators from the RCMP Unsolved Homicide Unit have identified and arrested a man and woman that we believe are responsible for Tyler Myers murder,” explains Inspector Gary Shinkaruk, E Division Major Crime Unit. “As we approach the four-year anniversary of Tyler’s death we are pleased to say that those responsible are now facing criminal charges.”

As the case is now before the courts, details cannot be released about the lengthy investigation. However, police can confirm that Tyler knew the two accused and this was not a random attack.

The now 20-year-old male and 21-year-old female, both from Salmon Arm, have been charged with first degree murder but cannot be named as they were young persons as defined by the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA) at the time of the offence.

“Each of our investigators believes that murder victims deserve to have their case solved, no matter how long the file takes. These charges illustrate their dedication and hopefully will help Tyler’s friends and family,” says Insp. Shinkaruk.

The investigation is ongoing and additional charges are possible. The two accused are scheduled to appear in Salmon Arm Provincial Court on Tuesday, Nov. 6.